News Release
NPS photo by T Rains.
News Release Date: June 9, 2016
Contact: NPS Investigative Services Branch, (202) 379-4761
Prison, restitution, and probation for a man who committed sexual abuse in Glacier National Park
An ISB Special Agent's investigation of abusive sexual contact by a man against a subordinate has resulted in a conviction and prison term. Lawrence L. Lockard, age 67, was sentenced in federal court on May 20 to 6 months in prison, and was ordered to pay more than $21,000 in restitution to the victim. Lockard will also serve 5 years supervised release.
According to the US Attorney's Office for the District of Montana, if called upon to prove its case at trial, the United States would have been prepared to show that Lockard, a diver with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, had sexually assaulted a co-worker while on a work related field trip.
On September 8, 2015, Lockard and two colleagues began a work related SCUBA diving trip at Quartz Lake, in the northwest portion of Glacier National Park. Lockard and a female co-worker slept in a cabin, while the third co-worker slept outside in a tent to avoid disturbing the others with his sleep apnea.
On the second night of the trip, the female co-worker woke to find Lockard in the bed with her, touching her inappropriately and attempting to remove her clothing. The victim immediately got out of bed, and Lockard returned to his bed. The victim informed him the following day that he never had permission to touch her. Lockard admitted he was aware that the victim was wearing earplugs and had taken sleeping medication.While being interviewed by the ISB Special Agent, Lockard stated that he knew what he did was wrong and knew the victim was asleep during his attempted assault. Lockard was both the victim’s supervisor and 17 years her senior. The sentence was enhanced because Lockard knew at the time that the victim had been drinking, had taken prescription sleep medication, and was asleep wearing earplugs when he initiated contact.
The victim testified that she still suffers from fear, anxiety, and sleeplessness as a result of Lockard’s conduct. The judge ruled that despite the Defendant’s lack of any criminal history, admirable employment record, and good standing in the community, any type of unsolicited sexual contact is absolutely intolerable.
Special Agents of the Investigative Services Branch are dedicated to supporting victims and witnesses of all ages. Our goal is to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect, informed of their legal rights, and provided with the necessary support and services they are entitled to throughout the continuum of care.
ISB: the Investigative Services Branch of the National Park Service
Last updated: June 9, 2016